Summary
Clemson's football team, once top-ranked under coach Dabo Swinney, has struggled in recent seasons. Swinney's refusal to adapt recruiting methods, especially in the transfer and NIL eras, is seen as a key reason for their decline. Recent decommitments, like that of recruit Blake Stewart, highlight these challenges.
Key Facts
- Clemson was a leading college football team from 2015 to 2019, winning two national titles.
- The team has faced three consecutive seasons with four or more losses, including a 7-5 record this year.
- Coach Dabo Swinney hesitates to use the transfer portal or embrace new recruiting rules like those under NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) agreements.
- This season's performance marks Clemson's weakest record since 2010.
- Clemson's policy prevents committed players from visiting other schools, which contributed to recruit Blake Stewart's decommitment.
- Despite struggles, Clemson qualified for its 21st straight bowl game.
- Swinney's job is currently secure, but he's under pressure to change his recruiting approach.
